Butuan City –Recognizing the noble act of volunteerism, the National Voluntary Blood Services Program (NVBSP) of the Department of Health Caraga conducted its Donor Retention and Care Wellness Advocacy Forum on 2 December 2022 at Balanghai Hotel, Butuan City.

Regional Director Cesar C. Cassion of DOH-CHD Caraga delivered the welcome message. In his message, RD Cassion commended the participants for their exemplary act of service through volunteering in helping at-risk individuals who are in need of their safe donated blood.

Included in the highlights of the forum is the advocacy of proper nutrition and tips to ensure healthy donations, which was shared by the National Nutrition Council Caraga, DMO II Marie Angelie S. Fernandez.

Ms. Fernandez featured the 10 Kumainments as a reminder and a guide to ensure a healthy diet and lifestyle. Participants were also guided on how to properly fill-up their plates every mealtime using the pinggang pinoy model which includes food groups and alternatives, amount of food/serving, and timing.

Additionally, Ms. Fernandez focused on the right foods typically consumed before and after donation, along with foods and activities to avoid. She emphasized the right quantity and quality of iron-rich foods consumed accompanied by Vitamin C rich foods and staying hydrated.

Other than NNC Caraga, joining as resource person is the Philippine Red Cross Caraga Chapter which shared the discussion on Preparation and After Care on Blood Donation.

The activity was organized by NVBSP of DOH-CHD Caraga, which aimed to provide donors with updates and refreshments on ensuring overall health before, during, and after donation, along with the rights and privileges of blood donors.

The activity included wellness exercises and games intended for the blood donors aim to provide support and establish connections in the pursuit of increasing the number of volunteer blood donors in Caraga region. #MAFernandez.